The New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) stands in support of rangatahi striking for climate action across the country today.

NZNO Climate Change Spokesperson Rachel Dobric says the health and wellbeing benefits of taking urgent action on climate change are massive.

"Leading medical journal The Lancet has made it clear that tackling climate change could be ‘the biggest global health opportunity of the 21st century," she said.

"The changes to infrastructure needed to avert climate catastrophe and keep warming below 1.5 degrees will mean reduction in air pollution, healthier diets, and more active lifestyles. All these changes will directly improve the health outcomes for the people our nurses care for every day."

Ms Dobric said that, as a union, NZNO is pleased to see rangatahi using the power of a strike to get the attention of people in power.

"Urgent and ambitious action on climate change is needed now. We fully support School Strike 4 Climate’s call for the Government to declare a climate emergency, and to take more ambitious action to avoid climate chaos."

Today also sees the launch of the Elbow Your Elders campaign, led by Generation Zero and School Strike 4 Climate.

"Many of our members across the country have children and grandchildren who are actively involved in climate activism," Ms Dobric said.

"This new campaign asks young people to speak to their elders about why they care about climate change, so it’s an excellent opportunity for our members to learn more about the issue and how they can help."

ENDS

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